I have ADHD. I had a nightmare childhood and have had a very difficult adult life. I only began on concerta a year ago. I am now applying for a PhD. Knowing and understanding my ADHD has literally completely changed my life. And yes, the pills too. They cleared my head and helped me think effectively for the first time in my life.

I was 'dilly daydream', 'space cadet', 'on planet Jane', 'Calamity Jane' etc etc. I was lazy, stupid, selfish, difficult, a liar, was only interested in school for the socialising and education was 'wasted on me'.

Actually, I was very smart and dealing with a serious, untreated neurological disorder.

Not all people with ADHD need to be medicated. It's not appropriate for everyone. But notes don't work. Telling her to colour code her diary won't work. Expecting her to 'just do it' won't work. Punishing won't work. Despairing or being disappointed won't work.

It's very useful to get a proper diagnosis with cognitive testing. Knowing whether working memory or processing speed are affected is useful, as is knowing how much inattention is an issue.